Bicyclists say raise bad-driver fines
Arizona bicyclists are calling for heftier fines for drivers who seriously injure or kill cyclists and pedestrians. It is a response, in part, to two recent accidents in Ahwatukee Foothills. The Coalition of Arizona Bicyclists is pushing for legislation to make hitting a cyclist in the right of way a crime punishable by a minimum fine of $1,000. "We need that, because we're getting killed out there, and it doesn't mean anything," Bill Lazenby, co-president of the group, said of current law. Two Republican legislators said they would support increasing fines for drivers at fault in such accidents. "Absolutely," Rep. John McComish of Ahwatukee said. "One thousand dollars doesn't sound like much of a hit . . . much of a penalty." Rep. Bob Robson, who also represents the area, said he favors increasing penalties but giving judges leeway in sentencing drivers. "I think what should happen is leaving it in the hands of a judge," he said.
